Wrexham Celebrates: Inside Wrexham’s Year of Wonder

Wrexham’s Year of Wonder is in full swing, celebrating 150 years since the extraordinary events that took place here in 1876 — truly a year of wonder.

As part of the team that brings these fantastic events to Wrexham, it has already been an incredible journey—and we’re only in February! I say incredible and I’m sure others on the team felt the same, that we would be involved in making small but meaningful improvements to the Football Association of Wales (FAW) commemorative plaque on the Wynnstay Arms Hotel wall. What was once an ageing, almost invisible plaque positioned high above eye level, it is now blue, restored, and clearly in view. It’s something locals can take pride in, and something visitors from near and far can pause to admire.

I also extend the word incredible to the array of the marvellous events themselves and remarkable results from the group of organisations and individuals, working together to bring you an incredible year-long festival.

Wrexham Writers FAW Birthday Bash Event, Ty Pawb.

This spirit of celebration and connection runs throughout the Year of Wonder, as have you ever noticed the Celtic swirls in the promotional material for Wrexham’s Year of Wonder? They are a defining element of the logo and campaign. Is this just a coincidence I'll let you decide. Created around twenty-six years ago, the mosaic mural titled I believe as the Millennium Mural is situated on Wrexham Library external wall. It was brought to life by artist Penny Hampson, working with over a thousand local children from eight schools across the county. It stands as a beacon celebrating local icons, including the Acton Four Dogs, Gresford Church’s stained glass window, and Wrexham’s industrial architecture, to name just a few.

Millennium Mural, Wrexham Library.

Like the mural, the Year of Wonder highlights many chapters of Wrexham’s rich historical story from 1876. These include significant events and figures such as Sir Watkin Williams-Wynn, the Art Treasure Exhibition, and the formation of the Football Association of Wales (FAW). While these represent only a minuscule snapshot of Wrexham’s long and varied history, each played an important role in shaping the town — now a city — and its identity.

As we remember the astonishing events of that year, the celebration also showcases Wrexham’s art, culture, industry, and commerce — past, present, and future — offering fascinating insight into life in Wrexham 150 years ago.

Why not explore the marvellous events taking place over on Wrexham’s 1876 website, and keep up to date via their social channels? Don’t forget to hit follow to stay updated throughout this remarkable year.

FAW commemorative Plaque.